Drawn by a calico cat stationmaster, I came to Idakiso Station (GOTAMA was on duty) and boarded the luxurious cat-themed train to Kishi Station. Kishi Station became famous after the cat stationmaster Tama began serving there. The first cat stationmaster, Tama, who took office in 2007, has since become an angel. The current successor is the fourth-generation Tama, 6TAMA, carrying on the cat stationmaster's adorable image and friendliness.
The station's design also incorporates many cute cat elements. The roof is shaped like cat ears, and the walls feature cat patterns. The overall design is full of childlike charm, with lots of cute cat details inside and outside the station. Travelers who come because of its fame get excited as soon as they step off the train. It truly is a must-visit stop for cat lovers.
The cute and lovable calico cat stationmaster not only raised Kishi Station's profile but also boosted local tourism. With cat-themed decorations and facilities, Kishi Station successfully became a famous Wakayama attraction. It not only revitalized the area but also brought widespread fame to this once sparsely visited station. Kishi Station is more than just a transportation hub; it's also a successful example of using creativity to promote local development. Today, its unique charm and warm atmosphere draw countless visitors who come to experience this little cat station filled with love and endless creativity.
The souvenir shop inside Kishi Station is packed with a dazzling variety of products. Next to Tama Cafe, it is also themed around the legendary cat stationmaster Tama and sells creative Tama merchandise. I wanted to buy every single item and take it home 😆😆.
Across from Kishi Station is Kinokawa City's tourist exchange center, Kirari, which also has a very cute exterior. The second-floor windows look like a pair of adorable doll eyes. Inside is an information center offering travel information and transportation guides, making it easy for visitors to learn about nearby attractions and how to get around.
I fell in love with Wakayama on my first visit. Next, I'll slowly check off the other attractions〜
Wakayama Electric Railway Kishigawa Line | Review by 周黛西
Other Reviews by 周黛西
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Sekai no Yamachan Main Store
The specialty of this restaurant is the "Maboroshi no Tebasaki", which would make you absolutely addicted for its spiciness and flavor of the "Maboroshi no Kosho（Phantom pepper）" and "Hiden no Tare(Secret sauce)".
A friend recommended Sekai no Yamachan as a must-eat in Nagoya, especially their signature tebasaki—fried chicken wings. If you want something lighter with more variety, order one of their set meals. The chopstick sleeve has fun illustrations showing “How to Enjoy Maboroshi no Tebasaki.” Follow the instructions and you can eat the wings completely clean〜 The outside is crispy without being greasy, while the meat is tender and juicy. The salty, fragrant pepper seasoning has a slight kick that leaves you licking your fingers and wanting more.
Besides the fried chicken wings, we also had miso fried pork skewers and fried shrimp rice balls that day. Very satisfying! Although Sekai no Yamachan also has a location in Taipei, when you're in Nagoya, you have to eat it locally for the real experience.
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Chunichi Building
Chunichi Building, which opened in April 2024, is a mixed-use complex in the Sakae area of Nagoya. From B1F to 5F, it offers a wide variety of shops, including restaurants, cafes, general goods stores, and local product shops, and its greatest appeal is that visitors can enjoy food, shopping, and sightseeing all in one place. Directly connected to the underground mall and easy to access, it is also conveniently located as a base for sightseeing.
Drawn in by the “Art Aquarium Exhibition Nagoya 2026” poster at the entrance of the Chunichi Building, I went inside and bought a ticket to see the exhibition combining goldfish, aquarium art, lighting, music, fragrances, and more. It was eye-opening.
After leaving the exhibition, I went up to the observation deck on the 7th floor. I didn’t expect to find such a great view overlooking downtown Sakae and the city streets. Those who aren’t afraid of heights might want to get a little closer to the parapet for a bird’s-eye view.
The building has well-known outdoor brand stores and popular home goods shops, as well as all kinds of restaurants on B1. Before heading home, I walked around, did some shopping, and had a cup of Blue Bottle Coffee, bringing my summer 2026 trip to Japan to a perfect close. -
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Hisaya-odori Park
Hisaya-odori Park is a long, linear urban park located along Hisaya-odori Avenue, recognized as one of Japan's "100 Best Roads." Combining parkland with commercial amenities, visitors can enjoy shopping and dining amidst lush greenery.
A major city needs a park that can breathe, and Hisaya-odori Park in Nagoya not only has trees but also green spaces. The fountain and TV tower also make you want to stop and take them in.
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